Bridges and Boundaries / Kim Taehyung

Chapter 2

The weeks following the garden party felt oddly different for Y/N. The estate continued its usual bustle of activity, but her mind often wandered back to the quiet moments she had shared with Taehyung. Despite the many demands on her time, she found herself preoccupied with thoughts of him, wondering about his life beyond the estate's boundaries and what had drawn him to his current role.

The house was always filled with the hum of domestic activity, from the clatter of dishes to the murmur of servants discussing their duties. Y/N's parents were often engrossed in their own social circles, leaving her with ample time to reflect on the conversations she had had with Taehyung. The more she thought about him, the more she realized how much she admired his dedication and the simple, honest way he approached his work.

One afternoon, Y/N was in the library, a sanctuary of sorts where she often escaped to read and think. She was halfway through a novel when she heard a faint knock on the door. The butler, Mr. Collins, entered with a polite bow.

"Miss Y/N, I have a request from the garden staff. They need assistance with a minor issue concerning the irrigation system. Could you please come to the garden to review it?"

Y/N, curious about the nature of the problem, agreed. As she made her way to the garden, her thoughts involuntarily turned to Taehyung. She hadn't seen him in the weeks since the party, and though she was aware of the class divide that separated them, she couldn't help but hope that their paths would cross again.

The garden was in full bloom, with flowers of every color creating a vibrant tapestry. The sight of Taehyung, bent over a section of the irrigation system, was oddly comforting. His sleeves were rolled up, and he was focused on his task, his brow slightly furrowed in concentration.

"Hello, Taehyung," Y/N called out as she approached. He looked up, a surprised yet pleased expression on his face.

"Miss Y/N," he greeted, straightening up. "I didn't expect to see you here. Is there something I can help you with?"

"I came to see what the issue was," she said, trying to sound casual. "Mr. Collins mentioned there was a problem with the irrigation system."

Taehyung nodded, gesturing towards the area he was working on. "There was a small leak. I've managed to contain it, but I need to make a few adjustments to ensure it doesn't recur."

Y/N watched as he deftly manipulated the pipes and fittings. 

There was something mesmerizing about the way he worked his hands were steady, his movements practiced. It struck her how different this world was from the one she inhabited, and yet, she felt a sense of kinship with Taehyung.

"Is it always this busy for you?" Y/N asked, trying to initiate a conversation. "Or is this a particularly hectic time?"

Taehyung paused, considering her question. "The garden requires constant care, especially with events like the recent party. It's usually busy around the times leading up to such occasions, but I find the work rewarding."

Y/N leaned against a nearby stone bench, her eyes scanning the meticulously maintained flowerbeds. "I've always admired how you and the other staff manage everything so efficiently. It's not something I could easily do."

Taehyung smiled, a soft, almost shy expression. "It's all about taking pride in what you do. Everyone here has a role, and we all work together to make sure things go smoothly."

There was a moment of comfortable silence between them. Y/N felt a twinge of regret for not having more frequent conversations with him. There was a depth to Taehyung that she wanted to explore further.

"How did you end up working here, if you don't mind me asking?" she ventured, genuinely curious.

Taehyung's expression grew more thoughtful. "I grew up in a small town, and I wanted to make something of myself. I came to the city for better opportunities, and I found this job. It's not glamorous, but it's a stepping stone."

Y/N nodded, understanding the drive and ambition behind his words. "It sounds like you've worked very hard to get where you are."

Taehyung's eyes met hers, and there was an earnestness in his gaze. "I believe that hard work eventually pays off. But enough about me what about you? What do you enjoy doing when you're not attending parties or events?"

Y/N hesitated, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I enjoy reading and painting. Sometimes, I try to escape the social obligations and immerse myself in my own hobbies. It's a way to find some peace."

Taehyung's eyes lit up. "That's wonderful. I've always thought that having a creative outlet is important. It helps to balance out the demands of daily life."

Their conversation continued, and Y/N found herself more and more at ease. She enjoyed hearing Taehyung's thoughts and perspectives on various topics. It was refreshing to engage in a dialogue that felt genuine and unforced.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the garden, Y/N realized how much time had passed. She needed to return to the main house, but she was reluctant to end their conversation.

"I should be heading back," Y/N said reluctantly. "Thank you for chatting with me, Taehyung. It's been really nice."

Taehyung smiled, a hint of something in his eyes that Y/N couldn't quite place. "It's been a pleasure, Miss Y/N. I hope we get to talk again soon."

"Just call me by name only dont need to add miss" As Y/N walked back towards the house. 

Taehyung nodded

she couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. feelings for Taehyung were growing stronger, and though she knew the challenges that lay ahead, she was beginning to understand that her connection with him was something worth fighting for.

The following days were filled with the usual whirlwind of activities, but Y/N found herself looking forward to her encounters with Taehyung. Each conversation revealed more about him and deepened her feelings.

 She started to question the constraints that had previously seemed so rigid, wondering if love could truly transcend the boundaries of social class.